The MEND Program Shows Promise for Reversing Cognitive Decline

Background

In September 2014, researchers from the University of California reported the development of the MEND protocol, short for Metabolic Enhancement for Neurodegeneration. MEND was designed to combine the results of multiple studies to create a comprehensive set of guidelines for enhancing cognitive function in elderly adults. The program was also intended to be personalized to each patient based on his or her lifestyle and medical history. The MEND protocol includes the following guidelines, among many others:

Eat a diet rich in high-antioxidant foods, such as blueberries and kidney beans, and anti-inflammatory foods, such as tumeric and salmon.

Minimize or eliminate simple carbohydrates, such as white bread and pasta, as well as foods with a high glycemic index, which are quickly digested and cause blood sugar spikes.

Fast for 12 hours each night, including at least 3 hours before bedtime. For example, if you typically eat breakfast at 7am, you should not eat anything after 7pm the previous night.